Stories of Change
November 21, 2025 – In a small hamlet in East Kupang, Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, stands a modest 4-by-6-meter house owned by Alex Batuk (46). Its walls are made of bebak lontar (palm bark), the roof from dried palm leaves, and the floor is still bare earth. In this small house, Alex lives with his wife, Trudelyanti (34), and their three children, one of whom is still a toddler.
Every corner of the house tells a story of struggle. When heavy rain falls, water seeps in from all directions, leaving the floor muddy and damp. The lontar walls are fragile with age, and the single window offers little air circulation. The family has lived here for over seven years—years filled with worry, endurance, and hope.
“Because the roof is made from palm leaves, I have to save money every three years to replace it. The same goes for the walls when they’re eaten by termites,” Alex explained.
Earning around one million rupiah per month as a farmer, every coin matters. To supplement his income, Alex also makes and sells palm sugar during his spare time.
Yet for this small family, the greatest fear is not just about money—it’s about survival.
“I always feel anxious whenever strong winds blow, like during the Seroja cyclone. Our house could easily collapse. When the wind is strong, we sit near the door, ready to run outside if the roof gives way,” he recalled.
A Turning Point for Hope
A new chapter began when the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team, together with PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, arrived in their village. After witnessing the family’s unsafe living conditions, Habitat decided to help rebuild Alex’s home into a safer, healthier place to live.
But this story goes beyond receiving assistance. When construction began, Alex—who once worked as a builder—was invited to join the construction team. He was no longer just a beneficiary, but an active contributor to building his own dream home.
“Before Habitat came to our village, I sometimes worked as a construction laborer. So I understand what a proper, sturdy house should look like, and how to build a strong foundation,” Alex shared.
Through training provided by Habitat Indonesia, Alex learned more about earthquake-resistant housing standards and safe construction techniques. He took part in the entire process—from laying the foundation to installing the roof—making sure everything was done properly.
“The difference is amazing. This new house feels so strong and solid because I know exactly how it was built. I helped build it myself,” he said proudly.
Read also: A Gift from Unceasing Prayers
A Home That Transforms Lives
Today, Alex’s new home stands firm—a safe and dignified place for his family.
“A home is where we find shelter from the rain and the heat. Now I’m so grateful to have a good house like this,” said Trudelyanti, gazing at the fresh new walls. “It fits our family perfectly. Our two children finally have their own room.”
More than just comfort, the new home has brought real change to the family’s life. With no need to constantly repair roofs or walls, the money that used to be spent on maintenance can now be saved for their children’s education.
“Now I can save little by little for my children’s future. I no longer worry about leaks or broken walls,” Alex said with gratitude.
After his house was completed, Alex decided to continue working as a construction worker with Habitat’s team, helping to build homes for other families in his community.
Now, every time he helps raise the walls of another family’s house, he feels the same spirit—the desire to provide safety and hope for others, just as he once received.
Thanks to the support of PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, this housing project has successfully built and renovated 100 homes for families in Kupang and surrounding areas. Behind those numbers lie real stories—like Alex’s—of resilience, sincerity, and hope rising from newly built walls.
Because for Alex, and for many families like his, a home is more than just a place to live. It is where hope grows, love dwells, and life begins again.
Writer: Kevin Herbian
(av/kh)
